Jamie Ireland
With Patrice Evra signing a one-year extension and United chasing various left-back options, it looks like Alexander Buttner is taking the hint and heading for the exit.
The Guardian reports that the 25 year-old left-back is frustrated by his lack of pitch time at Old Trafford and doesn’t foresee it improving under new boss Louis van Gaal.
The Netherlands defender believes that van Gaal does not rate him and he won’t get a chance, considering he has never been called up to the national squad by the incoming United manager.
Since joining from Eredvisie side Vitesse two seasons ago, Buttner has struggled to challenge Evra for the starting position.
Under David Moyes last season, he made only eight appearances in the Premier League and was caught out more than once defensively. (Squawka)
Although Evra is staying for at least another season, United are looking at Ajax’s Daley Blind and Southampton’s Luke Shaw as long-term replacements for the Frenchman.
Buttner to his credit does not want to sit on the bench or on the reserves for another season and earn a big salary, he wants to play regular football.
Despite his occasional defensive lapses, I think Buttner is rather good when he is on the ball and bombing forward down the flanks.
In my opinion he would be very suited to Serie A, and could certainly prove effective playing as a wing-back in a back five.
